Key points
- Women ice hockey matches feature emerging talent
- Phander Trouts defeat Yasin Janbaz
- Winter did not deter teams from various valleys from participating
ISLAMABAD: Curtains were drawn on the flamboyant Phander Winter Sports Festival Season 4 in Gilgit-Baltistan – the mountain region in Pakistan’s north renowned for its breathtaking landscapes – with grandeur.
The event, held at an altitude of approximately 9,000 feet above sea level, featured nail-biting ice hockey contests, traditional games and musical performances by burgeoning artists from the valley.
Scores of adventure seekers thronged the valley from across the mountainous region to embrace the thrilling event as the show provided a much-needed escape from the freezing temperatures.
The event was organised by Phander Sports Club and Ghizer Support Network with financial support from sponsors.
Thrilling winter competitions
During the thrilling competitions, Phander Trouts secured victory in the girls’ category, defeating Yasin Janbaz to claim the ice hockey title.
In the men’s final, Phander Trouts emerged victorious overcoming GB Scouts in an exciting contest on the concluding day of the event.
A key highlight of the festival was the participation of women, with a significant number of girls exhibiting their sporting skills, particularly in ice hockey – an important step towards women’s inclusivity in winter sports.
Temperatures fall far below zero degrees Celsius during winters in Phander – located 184 kilometres from Gilgit city on the road to the Shandur Pass – bringing daily life to a grinding halt. However, sports enthusiasts come out to embrace the harsh weather with thrilling entertainment activities.
Accessibility a challenge
Advocate Safdar Ali Shirazi, one of the key organisers of the event detailed the challenges and achievements of the annual event in empowering local communities, especially young girls, through winter sports during a conversation with WeNews English.
“Accessibility and connectivity are among the top challenges in this far-flung region. But thanks to the collaboration of volunteers, the local community, players and sponsors, we were able to hold a vibrant event,” Safdar, who is also a social and political activist noted.
He, however, lamented the lacklustre support of relevant government agencies which according to him didn’t lend a helping hand.
Thanks to the collaboration of volunteers, the local community, players and sponsors, we were able to hold a vibrant event.” – Safdar Ali Shirazi, one of the organisers
“Our community believes in promoting healthy activities for the youth which can play an emancipatory role.”
Shirazi opined that the event also benefited the local community with economic activities.
Tourist footfall
“Thanks to the annual event, tourist footfall has increased manifolds in the valley,” which according to him dipped in winters.
Riaz Ahmed, a player from the runner-up team said he was super excited about the event and it lived up to his expectations.
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“We were not acquainted with the ice rink but we enjoyed the game. I believe defeat is also an important aspect of sports that allows us to reflect on our shortcomings,” the 21-year-old athlete shared his thoughts with WeNews English in a phone call.
